This species is endemic to the Arabian Peninsula, where it is found in west and south Arabia, from Taif (Saudi Arabia) in the north to Dhofar (Oman) in the east (Arnold 1980). It is found to around 2,000 m asl (Arnold 1980).

This is the most common species of Agama in Yemen (M.M. al Jumaily pers. comm. February 2012). It is common in Saudi Arabia on rocks (M.M. al Jumaily pers. comm. February 2012). It is quite common in Dhofar (R. Sindaco pers. comm. February 2012). It is equally common around and away from human habitation (T. Wilms pers. comm. February 2012), and the population appears to be stable.

This is a rock dwelling lizard (Arnold 1980), mainly present in mountainous areas (M.M. al Jumaily pers. comm. February 2012). Populations can be found on vertical rocks, rock steps and amongst boulders (van der Kooij 2000). Arnold (1980) notes that all specimens seen were on large boulders in the vicinity of water in precipitous wadis surrounded by dense vegetation, and that animals are usually seen on the tops of these boulders. They do not however require water, obtaining moisture from their insect prey, and other surveys have found them away from water (T. Wilms pers. comm. February 2012). This species is found around human habitation, and will both climb stone walls and enter buildings (M.M. al Jumaily pers. comm. February 2012). It is a heliothermic species.

There are protected areas within its range in western Saudi Arabia and in Dhofar; it is also known from at least two protected areas in Yemen. No species-specific conservation actions are required for this species.